@Vinn ********

well that's entirely different and not what you asked. Buying 50 bikes and selling parts daily is a business obviously.

Why would it be illegal? You could sell the whole bike or parts, makes no difference. Selling an item is neither "work" nor a "business". Do you really think Thai authorities are chasing after people on Facebook marketplace?

I did exactly that a couple years ago. My visa didn't come through and I had to enter exempt. Got to front of line at 11:55pm so I let the guy behind me go ahead of me. The extra day saved me from an overstay.

@Kel *******

I don't see why not?

What's to stop you from applying in a cheaper country? (With VPN)

DC embassy fee is $400USD.....that's a far cry from 10,000THB??

I'm assuming you have a Thai GF? If not, why do you want to settle in one place? Thailand is decent but 5 months is enough for me. If I were in the same situation, I'd use Thailand as a base, but would spend as much time elsewhere as in Thailand.

Hi, I also stay with my GF in her home and go through this drill every year. She needs to do the TM30 within 24 hrs of your arrival - easiest way is online (use link posted above). I actually do this for her, it's simple. Then print a screen grab of the TM30 and take this with you to immigration when you are applying for the extension (I presume that's your objective). She does NOT have to accompany you. My GF has never done so.

Check-in online and you won't be asked. You will be asked to check a box acknowledging that you have all required documents.

Similar situation, I stay 5 months, 1 SE tourist visa + extension, border bounce (though usually do 4-5 day trip), visa exemption + ext. If I wanted to stay 6 months I'd a get a tourist visa from the neighbouring bounce country. Don't see any point in retirement visa for just 5-6 months.